Since they were invented, digital video cameras have been a part of many peoples’ lives as they document important events as they happen; not in still life like regular point and shoot cameras.

However, with the growing market of people looking for a digital video camera capable of taking high-definition videos, selecting a good brand that would suit the user’s preference is very difficult.

This site aims to give users some of the best cameras available in the market and tips you should know about your digital video camera, like how to shoot better videos, what accessories to buy, maintenance etc.

In comparison to analog video camera, digital video camera encodes moving visual images and converts them into digital data. People often refer to these types of cameras as cameras, camcorders and video cameras.

There are various formats used by digital video cameras to retain image quality depending on its use and storage. Blu-ray discs for example use H.264 or MPEG-4 Part 10, while Theora is used for Wikipedia videos.

Storing digital videos from digital video camera were originally done through tape formats and varied depending on the brand. Discs – such as VCDs, DVDs and Blu-ray Discs were used later on to store digital videos, which can be played in special video players.

How to Choose A Digital Video Camera

There are many digital video cameras available in the market and each has different features that may confuse buyers. Here are 10 things to consider when choosing a digital video camera.

Storage

Where would the camera record: in discs or memory cards? How much storage memory do you need?

Pixels

The more pixels, the clearer the colors and image will be.

Large CCD chips

If it’s larger, it takes in more light to give brighter photos and better colors.

Low light performance

Pick a video camera that can be used indoors with low light conditions and can be adjusted either automatically or manually.

Zoom

Optical zooms are better than digital zooms because they ensure clear photos.

Image stability

Pick a video camera that can reduce instances of shaky pictures. Consider its weight and settings accessibility.

Connectivity Options

Can you connect it to a VCR/DVD/Blu-Ray player or to your PC and transfer clips?

LCD Screen and Viewfinder

An LCD Screen helps in reviewing your clips, while viewfinder allows you to check the image before filming.

Sound quality

If you need to record sound, pick a video camera that has an external microphone.

Research

Check brands, reviews and guides for ideas on which video camera you can choose from.

Pros and Cons of Video Capable DLSRs

It is now common to see both smartphones and cameras now capable of recording high definition videos that can be shared online. However, while compact digital cameras have this ability, SLR cameras are also adding video capability and this presents confusion on what you should buy.

On the plus side, having a video capable DSLR allows you to get better photo quality and photo focus. Users also do not need to buy a separate video camera since it is available in one device. Lenses could also be changed depending on the zoom capacity and effects. It is also very easy to transfer files and store it.

On the negative side, they are larger than other available video cameras. A video capable DSLR also very limited when it comes to autofocus while filming and recording clips. It is also unable to store large video clips due to its built-in storage disks.

It also handles poorly when it comes to optimized videos. Video DSLRs are also very poor when it comes to the audio quality of recorded videos. Power zooms are also not available for Video DSLRs which other video cameras have for users.

If you want to buy a GoPro for the first time and do not know which GoPro is right for you, GoPro has a solution for you with GoPro Hero+. Dubbed as “the perfect entry-level GoPro+Wifi”, this camera can go wherever users want to go and shoot.

Features

If you are after a high-end digital video camera that can capture clear shots even on the go and can be used even by a beginner, GoPro’s Hero+ is the way to go. It is also Wi-Fi ready and waterproof, and can be controlled remotely.

Small and lightweight –This GoPro weighs only 4.3 ounces and it can be mounted on your favorite gear and shoot any moment.

1080p60 or 720p60 video quality – Hero+ can make either one of these resolutions for your videos.

Wi-Fi + Bluetooth compatibility – HERO+ has these two features built-in and connected to the GoPro App and Smart Remote.

Versatile photo capture – HERO+ can take 8MP photos and also has Time Lapse and Burst Modes for photo capture modes.

QuikCapture + Highlight Tag – With just one push of a button, your GoPro can record immediately and highlight the event it was taken.

Waterproof and Rugged Proof– Every GoPro is built with a rugged housing that can survive any kind of condition, even underwater.

Advantages

Versatility – GoPro is known for its versatility since users can take it anywhere at any condition.

Photo/ Video Quality – GoPro videos can either have a 1080p60 or 720p60 resolution and for photos, it is 8MP.

Portability – Considering its size and weight, it is very easy to carry around.

Considerations

Some users complained that the battery life of the camera is very short and it is very difficult to recharge. Video transfers are also very slow and syncing the camera is also very difficult with the app. However, other users say it is similar to previous models due to the quality and features it has for any shooting condition.

Bottom Line

GoPro ushered in the beginning of video cameras that can shoot in any type of location without worrying about the camera being destroyed as you are having fun. If you want to own one of these cameras without paying too much, HERO+ is for you!

Portability – This camera weighs only 11 ounces and it has a hand strap so users can hold it easily.

Considerations

Some of the comments cited by users that must be considered included the audio quality of the video. One person commented it sounded monaural and had a lot of background noise. However, all in all, most users were very satisfied with the quality of this camcorder’s features and its video quality.

Bottom Line

Canon has been known to deliver quality products for its users, may it be photo or print. This is a perfect camcorder for families who always want to catch those precious moments, especially if they have children.

Canon is now bringing their quality photos to their camcorder offerings and they introduced one of their best, the VIXIA HF R700 Digital Camcorder. This camcorder boasts one of the best advance zoom technologies available in the market with Full HD capacity. The features of this camcorder are also top-notch, providing users excellent shots in any given time.

Features

Canon did not spare anything when making VIXIA HF700 as the number of features it has is at par with other cameras available in the market today.

Portability – This camera is only 8 ounces and it has a hand strap for users.

Considerations

Some of the comments cited by users for consideration is the complexity of the menus provided for users as they are not too clear. Some also commented on the low-light video capacity of this camcorder. However, most users are very satisfied with this camcorder, especially those with children.

Bottom Line

The VIXIA HF R700 is a great camcorder, especially if you have families and children and you wish to record every moment with them. Canon promises good quality photos and videos and this camcorder’s features would boost these videos and give them a cinematic quality.

Want to shoot videos and take photos in clear definition and stability? Sony has a product for you and that is the Sony HD Video Recording HDRCX405 Handycam. This camcorder can record your favorite events and moments in vivid color with its wide angle lens and zoom capacity.

Features

With the HDRCX405 Handycam, users – even starters – can enjoy taking videos with this camcorder due to its HD quality and its user-friendly features. Here are some of the features of this one of a kind Handycam.

Picture and Video Effects –used to add more effects to videos and photos.

AVCHD and MP4 recording – This Handycam can record HD videos in either formats for easier sharing.

Intelligent Auto – These automatic modes are available to optimize your videos based on the 60 scene modes.

Advantages

Versatility – This Handycam has several settings that would match any shooting condition and take videos while walking.

Photo/ Video Quality – The photo and video quality of this Handycam is top notch as it allows users to adjust its settings and records at 60 FPS.

Portability – This camcorder is very light, only weighing 1.19 pounds and it is very small, no bigger than a soda can.

Considerations

Some consumers were not satisfied with the video quality and reported camera freezes. On the other hand, other consumers loved its video/photo quality and lightness.

Bottom Line

Any camera or camcorder offering of Sony is guaranteed to give high quality shots and videos and Sony users have loved its products since the first camera device was offered by the company. The HDRCX405 is good for beginners and families who wish to record in vivid color.

If you want asports action camera which is not expensive like a GoPro, you can check out ION Camera 1011L Air Pro Lite Wi-Fi. This durable camera is very small but it has an outstanding field of view and it has the best microphone available for action cameras.

Features

With the number of action cameras available in the market today, iON is now becoming one of the quick favorites of action aficionados who want to take photos while they do extreme sports.

170 degree field of view – this allows users to record wide shots in outstanding 1080p and 720p resolutions with high audio quality.

14MP – This is the megapixel quality of this camera for still, time lapse and burst-shot photos.

Waterproof – This camera can be brought underwater in the depth of 10 meters/30 feet.

Micro SD/Micro SDHC minimum class 6 to maximum 10 – Users can use either one of these memory cards up with a 32gb memory

5 hours – This is the approximated battery life of every iON Camera.

Wi-Fi PODZ – This camera has this system built-in to ensure Shoot/Share functionality is active so users can easily share to their social media sites.

ION Accessories and Mounts Compatibility – You can use your old Ion Accessories and mounts kit with this camera.

Advantages

Versatility – This action camera is waterproof and durable to withstand any shooting condition.

Photo/ Video Quality – The quality of this camera is top notch as it can record videos in HD in either 1080p or 720p format.

Portability – Weighing only 1.4 pounds, this camera can be carried anywhere.

Considerations

Users are divided with this camera, especially with its performance. Many complain about the fact this camera continuously freezes when it is recording clips. Battery life is also very bad and drains often.

On the other hand, other users say this is a great alternative for the GoPro which is very expensive for users. There are also good reviews on the one-touch slide recording function of this camera.

Bottom Line

For users who want to save money for an action camera and still get the same quality like those from GoPro, this Ion Camera 1011l Air Pro Lite is the solution you are looking for.

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